Top Paihia On the Water

There’s no better way to discover the Bay of Islands than from the water, and this half-day cruise from either Paihia or Russell lets you experience island life in depth, with a long stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You’ll get the chance to look for dolphins, learn about history, ecology, and wildlife from your skipper, and see signature sights including the Hole in the Rock.

Take a break from the hustle and bustle and venture out to discover the Bay of Islands on this group sightseeing cruise. Check out the Hole in the Rock and Cathedral Cave, and make sure you keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife during the cruise. Stop at one of the over 140 islands in the enclave and walk to a lookout point for views unlike any other.

There are few more unique ways to see the Bay of Islands than catching the wind and parasailing high above the water. See the Bay’s towns, forests and islands – all the way out to Cape Brett’s famous Hole in the Rock – from the sky on this aerial adventure. Take to the skies with your friends or family on tandem or triple flights. Your children can even go parasailing – this adventure is suitable for all.

Explore subtropical islands, Maori heritage sites and golden beaches on this cruise around the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Soak up the scenery as you float between the bay’s 144 islands and sail straight through the iconic Hole in the Rock (weather permitting). Along the way, spot dolphins swimming and playing alongside the boat.

The Hole in the Rock is a must-visit attraction in the Bay of Islands, but if you don’t have all day to get there on a leisurely cruise, take a fast-boat tour for a speedy trip. Admire the views of the picturesque bay as you zoom to the rock in comfortable hydraulic seating. Look out for dolphins and the Cape Brett Lighthouse. Learn more about the area from entertaining commentary.

Spend a day relaxing during this catamaran sailing trip, complete with an island stop and packed lunch. Sail aboard a spacious 40-foot (12-meter) catamaran in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy the scenery as you glide through the waters. Anchor at a secluded bay at an island accessible only by boat. Choose to stroll the island, swim, try stand-up paddle boarding, or snorkel. Relish a delicious catered packed lunch on beanbags upfront before cruising back to Paihia.

The Bay of Islands is made up of 144 islands, and the best way to explore them is by boat. On this island-hopping day cruise, you can relax on board a comfortable catamaran while admiring the beautiful views of the sea, islands, and maybe even some dolphins. Snorkel, swim, or paddle board, and stop on land to visit a wildlife sanctuary. This is the easy way to see the bay, as it’s difficult to travel here independently without a boat.

Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure on our 65 foot ocean going yacht GUNGHA II. Our sailing tour is exciting, funny and informal. We provide tasty morning snacks, heaps of sailing, a unique island stopover, masks & snorkels, hot outside showers and our yummy fresh sandwich lunch. Marine life including penguins, seabirds and others are often plentiful and frequently sighted in playful groups. Our friendly crew will help you sail the boat or you can simply relax and enjoy. We depart from Paihia/Russell daily at 10:00/10:15 am. We return around 4:00 pm. GUNGHA II is the largest and most widely travelled ocean sailing yacht in the Bay of Islands! Our crew have sailed and lived aboard throughout the Pacific and beyond. Our winter schedule often includes Tonga, Fiji and New Caledonia. If you are keen to talk about or learn some sailing skills our crew will be happy to share! Let us show you our paradise!

Cruise the stunning waters of the Bay of Islands on a thrilling speedboat adventure. Feel the excitement as you speed across open water in comfortable suspension seating designed for an exhilarating ride. This adventure offers a chance to extend your journey with an optional stop at Otehei Bay, where you can swim, relax, or explore the beautiful surroundings before returning on a later ferry. With local commentary throughout the ride, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of this breathtaking region.

Embark on a wildlife-focused cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands, where encounters with dolphins, whales, seals, and various bird species await. This 5.5-hour adventure includes a 1.5-hour stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, allowing you to explore the island's natural beauty and unique wildlife restoration efforts. The cruise is led by an experienced crew and is one of the few licensed operators by the Department of Conservation, ensuring a responsible and educational experience. Enjoy opportunities for swimming, beach relaxation, and learning about local conservation projects. - 4-hour scenic cruise aboard a purpose-built vessel with large viewing decks - Marine mammal viewing guarantee: come again free if no sightings occur - 1.5-hour island stop for swimming, exploring, and spotting native wildlife - Optional boom netting and lunch available at Otehei Bay Cafe & Bar

Get onboard the most comprehensive day cruise in the Bay of Islands, taking in the Hole in the Rock, the historic Cream Trip route and an island stop at Otehei Bay. Start the morning cruising through the inner islands and past the Cape Brett Peninsula, out to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako. Take in the scenery, learn about the area's history through our informative and entertaining commentary, and keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine wildlife along the way. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach, explore a coastal walking track, have a swim or hire a kayak in peak season, then grab a bite to eat and drink from the fully licensed Otehei Bay Bar & Café. Following your island stop, cruise through the inner islands past the unique Black Rocks and the historic Marsden Cross, then try your hand at boom-netting when available.

The Bay of Islands is a subtropical meeting point where tropical visitors like Lord Howe coralfish mix with giant stingrays, morays and kelp forests on volcanic reefs. Paihia Dive has been diving here since 1978. Any certified diver is welcome, solo bookings are fine, and all your scuba gear is included, so you can just turn up and dive.

Explore Paihia’s wild side on this family-owned and operated sightseeing cruise to (hopefully) spot some marine life. Just sit back, relax, and let your captain do the work of taking you to some of the best spots on the water. A portion of every ticket goes straight to marine mammal conservation and a local children’s marine education program.

No experience needed: this is the easiest way to try scuba diving in the Bay of Islands. You spend a full day on the water with a dive team that has been diving here since 1978, get free lifetime access to SSI's digital learning, and dive with an instructor beside you the whole time. All gear is included, and you can add a second intro dive by choosing the 2nd Intro Dive option when you book.

Immerse yourself in the timeless tranquillity of peaceful Paihia. With gorgeous sunset backdrops, our cruise makes for a perfect romantic evening or an escape from busy lives. Sit back and relax while your captain takes you to the best anchorages around the bay. Feel the wind in your hair on this true sailing experience.

Spend the day exploring the Bay of Islands on a full-day cruise from Paihia. Participate in activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, gathering fresh sea food, exploring WWII remains, and trekking across islands to visit ancient Maori fortifications. Refuel with a lunch midday and spend some time relaxing on a secluded beach.

The Rock overnight cruise in the Bay of Islands is the only overnight cruise in the area to offer such a wide range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, island walks, and more. Enjoy adventure activities as well as time to relax in peaceful nature. As this is an all-inclusive tour you don’t need to worry about any logistics. Just show up ready for fun.

Enjoy an exhilarating 30km jet ski tour through the stunning Bay of Islands, perfect for those seeking adventure on open waters. The Urupukapuka Island Expedition features a vibrant 45-minute stop at Otehei Bay's cafe, allowing you to recharge with a drink while soaking in the island vibes. With experienced and safety-certified guides, this tour ensures a thrilling yet safe experience on Yamaha jet skis, all within small groups for a personalized touch. Get ready to embrace the best coastline New Zealand has to offer. • 2.5-hour jet ski adventure covering 30km round trip • Relax at Otehei Bay with a 45-minute cafe stop • Led by experienced, safety-certified guides • Small group sizes for a more personal experience

This is an official dive operator for the HMNZS Canterbury and has been diving the Bay of Islands since 1978. You don't need to be an Advanced diver or bring a group: Open Water divers are welcome with an instructor, and solo bookings are fine. You dive a whole Navy frigate plus a Bay of Islands reef in one day, with all gear included.

The Rainbow Warrior is one of the world's premier wreck dives and a piece of New Zealand history. Diving the Bay of Islands since 1978, Paihia Dive gets you there with a scenic drive, a fun beach launch and just an 8-minute boat ride. Open Water divers are welcome with an instructor, solo bookings are fine, and all gear is included.

Cruise around Tapeka Point where the seas open up and the ride gets a whole lot more exciting. Hold on for a thrilling burst of adrenaline as you take on the waves, before pulling right up onto the sand at the famous Twin Lagoons. Enjoy 45 minutes of pure downtime at sea level. Swim or snorkel in the clear, shallow waters, explore the beach, or simply stretch out and soak up the sun. Please note: Snorkelling gear is not provided, so bring your own if you’d like to snorkel.

Enjoy the exclusive use of the luxury sailing catamaran, Serenity. Sit back and take in the sights, or if you want to get involved, take a turn at the wheel under the guidance of your professional captain or assist in hoisting the sails. The captain will select a suitable place to drop anchor and allow you to explore the coast via paddleboard, the beach by foot, hike the scenic island trails, swim or snorkel a lagoon, or simply lounge and relax on the spacious decks. The choice is yours to customize the day as you wish. Serenity comfortably accommodates up to 20 guests. Her spacious interior and enclosed cockpit allow ample space for all, even if a rain shower passes over. Pickup and drop-offs at your coastal luxury lodge or accommodation provider can be arranged.

Skip crowded shorelines on a private catamaran charter through New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, departing from Paihia or Russell Wharf. Your group of up to 19 can sail to an island accessible only by boat, anchor in sheltered bays, and choose between swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, or an island walk. Whether you prefer an active day of adventure or simply relaxing on board and taking in the views, the experience can be tailored to suit your group. With plenty of space to spread out, comfortable onboard seating, and the freedom of a private itinerary, you can enjoy the Bay of Islands at your own pace.